Composite nanomaterials for generating Electricity from Forever Chemicals in hybrid Electrochemical-Bioelectrochemical System

The widespread contamination of our natural environments by per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) compounds is a major and difficult problem today. Indeed, PFAS are present in many everyday products, but have now been identified as toxic and carcinogenic. They, therefore present serious health risks for humans and wildlife. These “forever” chemicals are additionally particularly persistent in biodegradation due to their high number of carbon-fluoride bonds and their strength. Fortunately, however, PFAS degradation can be facilitated by electrocatalysis combined with bioelectrochemical degradation in bioelectrochemical systems (BES), where PFAS will be converted to electricity by electroactive microorganisms. In this context, ForChemEl proposes an original approach to the development of a device in which harmful and persistent PFAS will be converted into electricity. In particular, ForChemEl will deliver novel types of electrodes based on metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) embedded in conductive fibrous carbon materials. Proof-of-concept of the system's effectiveness will be carried out on a model PFAS compounds. Advanced simulation tools and molecular modeling will be used to predict and enhance the performance of designed catalysts at a molecular level. The nanoparticle structure will be optimized to decompose PFAS into non-toxic products. These catalysts will be synthesized using organometallic approach and verified for their performances in a hybrid electrochemical/bioelectrochemical system. The reactor design will be based on microbial electrolysis cells, where a portion of the energy will be derived from microorganisms that produce this energy in a natural respiratory process. Both the electrocatalysts and microbial catalysts will support each other in degrading the recalcitrant PFAS and other persistent organic pollutants. Microbial/electrocatalytic electrodes will be manufactured as ready-to-go modules that can be utilized in any type and geometry of the bioelectrochemical reactors. Thus, through design and fabrication of novel nanocomposite electrodes, ForChemEl will deliver an innovative hybrid bioelectrochemical/electrochemical process where forever chemicals will be converted into electricity and thus, minimize their environmental threat in a sustainable way.